We’re looking for a committed and confident criminal defence solicitor to join our Public Defence Solicitors’ Office (PDSO) in Ayr. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of clients, delivering high-quality legal representation in both solemn and summary proceedings.
Key responsibilities include:
providing legal advice and representation to clients at police stations and in criminal courts as a nominated and duty solicitor
applying best practice and legal procedures to ensure effective case handling and operational efficiency
building and maintaining a local client base through excellent service and representation
representing PDSO in liaison with external organisations to support the wider objectives of Client Legal Services
contributing to staff training and development.
To succeed in this role, you will need:
a current, unrestricted practising certificate and enrolment as a solicitor with the Law Society of Scotland (or a pending application)
strong experience in Scots criminal law and criminal court procedure
experience advising clients in police detention and managing cases across summary and solemn courts
sound judgement and the ability to make objective, informed decisions under pressure
excellent written and verbal communication skills – persuasive, clear and client-focused
strong planning, organisational, and time management skills with an eye for quality
a proactive, driven mindset with a high standard of personal ethics and professionalism
a valid driving licence for travel to courts, client meetings, and other PDSO offices.
What we offer
A meaningful role where your work makes a real impact
A supportive, inclusive, and values-driven working environment
Opportunities for learning and professional development
Flexible arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance
A competitive salary and benefits package, including pension contributions
Generous annual leave entitlement (34 days, rising to 42 days after two years’ service)
Enhanced family-friendly leave entitlements
Access to wellbeing support, mental health support and an employee assistance programme
Access to a wide range of discounts (including gym and retail) and the Cycle to Work scheme through our partner, Edenred.
This post is fixed term (12-month maternity cover) on a full-time basis. Interviews are likely to take place in early December 2026.
For more details about this role and a full list of essential criteria and required competencies, please see the Job Description.
For assistance, please email [email protected].
Completed applications should be returned by 24 November 2026 (23:55).
About Us
The Public Defence Solicitors’ Office (PDSO) is a national network of publicly employed solicitors, providing high-quality criminal legal assistance across Scotland. Established in 1998, we operate as a direct service of the Scottish Legal Aid Board, offering expert advice and representation to clients eligible for criminal legal aid. Our experienced team supports individuals facing summary and solemn cases at all levels, representing them in some of Scotland’s busiest courts.
For more information, visit www.pdso.org.uk.
The Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB) plays a vital role in ensuring access to justice for all individuals in Scotland. As a non-departmental public body, SLAB operates independently but is accountable to the Scottish Government. Our mission is simple: to provide essential legal support to those who need it most, ensuring fair access to justice for all.
We manage and continually improve the delivery of publicly funded legal assistance and provide strategic advice to Scottish Ministers, shaping the future of legal aid in Scotland. In a dynamic and evolving legal landscape, our work is central to the functioning of the justice system, supporting the courts and helping people navigate complex legal matters.
At SLAB, we believe in the power of a diverse, talented workforce. We employ individuals from all backgrounds, bringing a range of skills and experiences to our workforce. Every role, whether directly interacting with the public or providing behind-the-scenes support, makes a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
We offer an inclusive, supportive work environment with a comprehensive employment package. To learn more about working with SLAB and the benefits we offer, please visit www.slab.org.uk/recruitment/working-for-us.
We are an equal opportunities employer, dedicated to being fair, inclusive and a place where all belong.
We welcome and encourage applications from diverse backgrounds, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQI+ people.
We will ensure that the disclosure of disability status will not negatively impact anyone’s application. Where reasonable, we are committed to guaranteeing an interview to every applicant who indicates they have a disability, under the Equality Act 2010, and meets the minimum criteria for the role.
For further information on SLAB’s services, values, and how the legal aid system works, please visit www.slab.org.uk.
